A meeting with a delegation from Uzbekistan, led by Director of the Migration Agency Mr. Bekhzod Musaev, was held at the Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI). The delegation comprised Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Uzbekistan Mr. Olimjon Abdullaev, experts from various ministries and institutions, as well as representatives of the Embassy of Uzbekistan in Bulgaria. From Bulgaria, the meeting was attended by Mr. Petar Mandzhukov, Honorary Consul of Uzbekistan in Bulgaria, Mr. Veselin Halachev, President of the Bulgarian-Uzbek Industrial Chamber, members of the BCCI’s Managing Board, and companies’ representatives.
The President of BCCI Mr. Tsvetan Simeonov discussed the development of the bilateral relations between Bulgaria and Uzbekistan, with a particular focus on cooperation in the area of labor migration.
During the discussion it was emphasized on the traditionally decent and constructive bilateral relations, built on mutual understanding and goodwill. Mr. Simeonov stated that Bulgaria views Uzbekistan as a priority and long-term partner in Central Asia — one of the leading countries in the region. He summarized that bilateral trade and economic relations with Uzbekistan need to be further revitalized, as there are many opportunities for development.
Mr. Musaev noted that in Uzbekistan, the Chambers of commerce and industry also play a key role in promoting the interests of entrepreneurs and act as a bridge between the business and government. The growing membership of BCCI is a testament to the chamber's effective work, he stated further.
Special attention was given to potential cooperation in the field of labor migration. The guests shared that approximately 15,000 Uzbek citizens are currently working in Bulgaria. Uzbekistan has a significant labor resource, with strong work ethics and professional expertise in various fields.
Some challenges in the process of dispatching and posting workers from Uzbekistan to Bulgaria were also discussed. The Asian country expressed its interest in concluding a bilateral agreement in this area. A draft of such a document is expected to be discussed at the governmental level.
During their working visit to Bulgaria, the Uzbek delegation also held meetings at the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy, the Employment Agency, the Ministry of the Interior, the Parliament, and with non-governmental organizations.